Kussend stel 1891 - 1941

Leo Gestel sketched this work, titled "Kussend stel", using graphite on paper. Here, we witness a motif as ancient as time itself: the kiss. It is not merely a physical act, but a profound symbol of union, desire, and the merging of souls. Throughout history, the kiss has been depicted in art, from the tender embraces of lovers in ancient frescoes to Klimt's gilded masterpiece. Consider Rodin's "The Kiss", where the lovers are frozen in an eternal embrace, their bodies intertwined in a dance of passion. But how do we interpret this kiss in the context of its time? The kiss has carried diverse meanings. In some cultures, it is a symbol of peace, while in others, a sign of betrayal. It has been used to seal pacts, express filial affection, and even transmit disease. The act of kissing engages our collective memory and taps into primal emotions. It speaks to our deepest desires, our longing for connection, and our fear of separation. It is a powerful force that transcends time, resurfacing in art and life, evolving and adapting to new cultural contexts, yet always retaining its core essence as a symbol of human connection.